The St. Louis Rams will begin the season without wide receiver Stedman Bailey.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Bailey has been suspended four games for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances, according to a source informed of the situation.
The NFL later announced the suspension. Bailey will be eligible to return to the Rams' active roster on Oct. 6, following the team's Week 5 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Bailey is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason practices and games.
A person close to Bailey told Rapoport that the receiver did not take any performance-enhancing substances. It's a tough blow for the Rams, who were plotting a bigger role for Bailey in his second season.
The Rams didn't select a wide receiver with any of their 10 picks in the draft. Rapoport reported that the team was aware of Bailey's positive test and looming ban for some time.
Who could be the benefactor of Bailey's misfortune? Keep an eye on Kenny Britt, who signed a one-year deal with St. Louis in the offseason and might have a golden opportunity to make an impact in the season's opening weeks.
The "Around The League Podcast" wrapped up the draft by picking our winners and losers.
